SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
It’s no secret that creative folks flock together. A right-brained shorthand and a common interest in aesthetics would be enough but the added bonus of constant, mutual inspiration is likely what keeps the worlds of fashion, art, and entertainment in the same orbit. In any period in history, take a fashion designer, an artist, and an eccentric socialite and you’ve yourself got a recipe for creativity (and a damn good party).
Early last century, Kees van Dongen (painter, 1877-1968), Paul Poiret (fashion designer, 1879-1944), and the Marchesa Casati (socialite, 1881-1957, namesake of the modern line, ‘Marchesa’) were one such trio of general fabulousness. Witness the fruit of their friendship below and don’t be surprised when designers cite each or all three as inspiration during the upcoming fashion show season.
Painting (above): ‘Woman With A Fan’ (1920) by Kees van Dongen
Painting (top, left): ‘The Quai, Venice’ (1921) by Kees van Dongen, Painting (bottom, right): ‘La Vasque fleurie’ (1917) by Kees van Dongen, Photograph (top, right): Marchesa Casati in Paul Poiret’s fountain costume – photographer unknown, Photograph (bottom, right): Paul Poiret’s wife, Denise, beneath a Kees van Dongen painting in the couple’s bedroom – photographer unknown
